Imphal: 1000s of demonstrators marched through Imphal on Saturday to protest the abduction and killing of six Naga civilians in the Kangpokpi district. The rally, led by the All Naga Students Association, Manipur, marched from the Tangkhul Baptist Church to Khuyathong and concluded at the Mao Market. Participants carried placards demanding accountability for the victims who were killed in Leilon Vaiphei village after being held captive for three weeks.
Protesters voiced frustration over the lack of arrests despite more than a month passing since the incident occurred. ANSAM president Anteshang Maring criticized the government response, stating that the demonstration was organised to raise the concerns of families and communities seeking justice for the six civilians. Maring specifically alleged the involvement of the KNF-P in the killings and requested that the government designate the group as a terrorist outfit.
The rally also served as a platform for political demands. Attendees called for the end of the Suspension of Operations agreement with Kuki militant groups, arguing the policy has been exploited to fuel further violence. Additionally, demonstrators sought the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen, citing alleged connections between her family and the accused militant organisation. Officials have yet to provide a statement regarding the allegations or the specific demands put forward by the protest organisers.
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